Annapolis notes

Personal experience causes Myers to vote against bill

ANNAPOLIS - A first-hand experience led Del. LeRoy E. Myers Jr. to vote against expanding the powers of investigators in the Maryland Comptroller's Office.

Myers said the state audited his construction business in the early 1990s. Although the auditors didn't find any problems, the experience was a hassle.

"I'm the one who has to pay fees and spend money to prove I was right," said Myers, R-Allegany/Washington.

Comptroller William Donald Schaefer is seeking broader powers for his field officers, saying it would improve tax collections.

The legislation passed the House on Friday by a vote of 96-36. It now heads to the Senate.

Similar legislation passed the Maryland General Assembly last year, but was vetoed by Gov. Parris Glendening, who had an ongoing feud with Schaefer.

Lawmakers see hope for refund deadline bill

ANNAPOLIS - Speaking of bills that were vetoed by Gov. Parris Glendening, a bill to extend the tax refund deadline may have more success now that Republican Robert Ehrlich is residing in the governor's mansion.